FAQ’S

What Is Solar Power?

Solar power is the resultant conversion of sunlight into electric current via the use of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. Additionally, it can be heat energy that’s generated from solar thermal systems which concentrate sunlight into receivers to heat water.

What is a solar panel?

Solar water heating and solar electric (photovoltaic) systems receive solar energy in rectangular-shaped panels – also known as “collectors”. These solar collector panels are mounted on a building’s roof or ground-mounted in special situations. Solar electric panels contain the materials that convert sunlight directly into electricity. Solar panels are engineered to operate in very high winds and withstand environmental damages.

Can solar energy lower my electric bill?

Yes, Solar panels are used to convert the suns energy into electricity that can be used by your home or business. The panels are connected to the electrical system generally using net metering system. This allows your facility to utilize the electricity when it’s being produced by the sun to off set your usage from the power company. When the sun isn’t producing electricity in the evening, you use the power from the power company.

How much does a residential solar system cost?

The cost of a solar system depends on the size of the system that is built. Systems can be built so they are scalable. It is important to know what size the solar panel system is, how much electricity will be produced, and the price per watt. Each solar system will produce different amounts depending on how good the design is, what shading could reduce the systems daily production, and where the solar panels are on the earth. Each geographical region and even location is going to receive different amounts of sun. After all of this is calculated, then you can make an educated decision on what size of solar panel system you need and want based on your energy demands and budget. Also, renewable incentives help offset the end and overall cost of a PV system.

Can I get a payment plan?

Sun Power Solar & Electrical offer many financing options and will help you find the financing plan that best meets your needs.

What happens if there is no sun that day?

Lack of sunshine limits the solar energy potential of any solar energy system. However, some of the sun’s solar radiation will penetrate clouds to heat water or generate electricity.

How long does it take to install a solar energy system?

Most home systems can be installed by our master Elctrician in 1 or 2 days. Installation follows a thorough site survey and engineering review. Larger commercial or business installations can take longer depending on size, complexity and special mounting.

Who installs my solar system?

In house CEC Accredited solar installers. At Solar Touch we pride our selves on workmanship and offer a lifetime warranty on the workmanship that takes place.

Do you handle all the rebate and Small Technology Certificate (STC) paperwork for me so I only have to pay the difference?

Yes this is all handled by us so the rebate is already calculated into the price quoted.

Does a solar panel need to be on my roof?

For most home installations, the roof is the optimum placement for solar panels. Unobstructed by trees or other shade-producing structures, facing toward the north and able to be securely attached. If the homeowner has adequate yard space and/or many panels to be installed, Sun Power Solar & Electrical can review the option of ground mounting.

How much roof space is required?

What electrical cables are used in your solar power system?

Many solar panel companies prefer to use cheaper 2.4mm cables or a 4mm AC cable. They use this as a way to make their prices lower, but it ends up making for cheaper, poor quality systems. At Energy Smart we only use DC cables from trusted manufacturers that run from the array to the inverter. And we only use strong 4mm earth cable from the array to the earth neutral link

Which guarantees/warranties are your responsibility and which are the manufacturers?

All solar panels come with a 25 year performance guarantee and all inverters come with a 5 year manufacturer’s warranty, but to make it easier for the customer Sun power solar & electrical apply for all the warranties and replace any of the products free of charge if any faults occur within this period

Can I add solar panels later?

Yes. panels can be added at a later date as long as the inverter can handle the power output. If the current installed inverter cannot handle the power output the inverter can also be upgraded.

Can I adapt solar power systems for my business?

Due to higher incentives and rebates for businesses, solar makes just as much if not more sense for business owners. Add in the depreciation factor for a solar energy system capital expense, and the financial incentives become even more attractive.